What do you think?
Rate this book
God's Answers to Life's Difficult Questions
How can I …cope with stress?rebound from failure?defeat depression?have peace of mind? Life’s difficult questions have answers. Answers from the Bible that can change your outlook―and your life. Rick Warren writes, “In each of these studies, you will discover simple ways to apply God’s truth to your personal life, your family, and your job. The way to get the most out of this book is to act on it.� Rick Warren takes you inside the Scriptures to see what they reveal about twelve of the most pressing questions people ask. They are questions you yourself either have asked or most likely will ask. This book provides simple, straightforward answers you can begin to apply right away to move past your worst sticking points and enjoy a life of purpose, peace, and significance.
197 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1999
615 people are currently reading
1567 people want to read
About the author
Rick Warren
520Ìýbooks1,922ÌýfollowersRichard Duane Warren is an American Baptist evangelical Christian pastor and author.He is the founder of Saddleback Church, an evangelical Baptist megachurch in Lake Forest, California. Since 2022, he is director of the Finishing the Task mission coalition.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
September 4, 2015
I am not exactly a Christian, but I'd still highly recommend this book to anyone who is confronting difficulties in dealing with personal issues in life like Stress, Depression, feelings of Failure, Discouragement, Loneliness and so on.
There are some very sound and wise points on the causes and solutions for various life challenges.
The references to the various Biblical characters and stories have given the reading of the Bible a more interesting depth.
The book is very easy to read, however, even for an impatient reader like myself who can wait to get to the end of the book, I have been reading it very slowly in order to digest the writing and relate them to my personl experiences and feelings.
I found a lot of the points very useful and sensible. Having said that, I still have much difficulties to fully accept the religious connotation. "Repent" and "Believe" (P.196) were the 2 words that caught my attention in the last chapter; concepts or words that I need time to contemplate, and perhaps to explore the "Born Again" concept also!
Nevertheless, whether it was because it's from the Bible or any Book of Wisdom, I agree that: " The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge, but to change our lives.".... "Go and do likewise." (P.10)
Thank you for the inspiration Mr. Warren.
There are some very sound and wise points on the causes and solutions for various life challenges.
The references to the various Biblical characters and stories have given the reading of the Bible a more interesting depth.
The book is very easy to read, however, even for an impatient reader like myself who can wait to get to the end of the book, I have been reading it very slowly in order to digest the writing and relate them to my personl experiences and feelings.
I found a lot of the points very useful and sensible. Having said that, I still have much difficulties to fully accept the religious connotation. "Repent" and "Believe" (P.196) were the 2 words that caught my attention in the last chapter; concepts or words that I need time to contemplate, and perhaps to explore the "Born Again" concept also!
Nevertheless, whether it was because it's from the Bible or any Book of Wisdom, I agree that: " The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge, but to change our lives.".... "Go and do likewise." (P.10)
Thank you for the inspiration Mr. Warren.
March 18, 2013
God's Answers to Life's Difficult Questions is very relevant to today's issues. It provides a modern spin to parables in the bible and their application to today's problems. It reminds one that perhaps we are dealing with many of the same issues as our forebears.
It is well-researched scripturally and but often relies trite clichés and sayings (i.e., you gotta keep on keeping on, he was sick and tired of being sick and tired, when life gives you lemons, etc.).
It is definitely a good starting point for a discussion with one's pastor, a friend, or a counselor. However, the book fails to delve deeply into the presented problems. Instead, it tends to distill the application of lessons into overly simplified lists (i.e., the three R's, the three C's).
It is well-researched scripturally and but often relies trite clichés and sayings (i.e., you gotta keep on keeping on, he was sick and tired of being sick and tired, when life gives you lemons, etc.).
It is definitely a good starting point for a discussion with one's pastor, a friend, or a counselor. However, the book fails to delve deeply into the presented problems. Instead, it tends to distill the application of lessons into overly simplified lists (i.e., the three R's, the three C's).
Read
July 26, 2022“¡Ni aun Dios se dedica a agradar a todo el mundo, de modo que en vano procurar hacer algo que ni siquiera él hace!�
June 19, 2015
This is a great book everyone should read. Although I'm very familiar with Rick Warren, I think this is the first book by him I've ever read. It is easy to read and logically presented. Each chapter tackles a difficult "life question" and then proceeds to use a Biblical example as illustration and easy to follow/remember points as to the answer to the question and how to make application to your life. I really liked the fact that he closed the book with an invitation to the reader to turn your life over to Jesus if you have not already done so. The advice given in the book won't work unless your have given your life to Jesus. This isn't just a self help, how to live easier or be happy more. This is a good, biblically based book about dealing with life. I will likely be reading more Rick Warren books at some point in the future.
March 8, 2012
What a crap book. The writing was simplistic, the extrapolations taken from scripture were stretched without any kind of background, and the simplistic view of depression (which was presented time and again throughout) was a travesty. For the Christian that is just experiencing some minor down times, this book may be okay. For the Christian that is really struggling and battling some serious mental health issues, it may do more harm than good.
June 11, 2014
I loved this book! The title containing "Difficult Questions" didn't pull me in, but the questions were ones I ask myself everyday...or should. The book addresses things we encounter every day. I checked this book out from the library, but plan to purchase my own copy.
September 2, 2012
This book helps me deal with stress more and rely on God with all aspects of my life. The Bible is always true and I love how he refers to verses with every topic.
June 20, 2018
I needed this. going through a rough time.
January 4, 2019
Un libro fácil de leer y sencillo, pero con una gran enseñanza. Nos habla de como lidiar con emociones y problemas tan comunes, que si no les prestamos la atención debida a la larga nos trae problemas de salud. Habla del estrés, el fracaso, la depresión, la mediocridad, problemas que van surgiendo del dÃa a dÃa, la soledad y también a pesar de todo esto obtener la tranquilidad. Todo con base bÃblica y recordándonos que Dios siempre está con nosotros, que él no nos manda nada que no podamos soportar y que no estamos aquà por accidente, Dios tiene un propósito para cada uno de sus hijos.
December 13, 2024
God's Answers to Life's Difficult Questions is a comforting and encouraging read that serves as a gentle reminder of God’s presence and guidance in times of trouble. Rick Warren’s ability to blend biblical truths with practical advice makes it a valuable resource for anyone facing life’s hurdles. While it may not dive deep into theology, its simplicity and relatability are its greatest strengths.
If you’re looking for a faith-filled, uplifting book to help you tackle life’s tough questions, this one is worth reading.
Rick Warren’s God's Answers to Life's Difficult Questions is an insightful and accessible guide for those seeking practical, faith-based wisdom to navigate life’s challenges. Drawing from biblical principles and relatable anecdotes, Warren addresses common struggles such as stress, failure, forgiveness, and doubt, offering readers encouragement and clarity.
Key Themes
Warren organizes the book around significant life questions, such as:
"How can I handle stress?"
"What does it mean to forgive others?"
"How do I recover from failure?"
Each chapter provides a clear, actionable roadmap grounded in Scripture, ensuring that readers not only understand the spiritual context but also have tangible steps to apply in their lives. The focus is not on abstract theology but on the practical outworking of faith.
If you’re looking for a faith-filled, uplifting book to help you tackle life’s tough questions, this one is worth reading.
Rick Warren’s God's Answers to Life's Difficult Questions is an insightful and accessible guide for those seeking practical, faith-based wisdom to navigate life’s challenges. Drawing from biblical principles and relatable anecdotes, Warren addresses common struggles such as stress, failure, forgiveness, and doubt, offering readers encouragement and clarity.
Key Themes
Warren organizes the book around significant life questions, such as:
"How can I handle stress?"
"What does it mean to forgive others?"
"How do I recover from failure?"
Each chapter provides a clear, actionable roadmap grounded in Scripture, ensuring that readers not only understand the spiritual context but also have tangible steps to apply in their lives. The focus is not on abstract theology but on the practical outworking of faith.
September 15, 2023
My spiritual father send me this book. It wasn't on my want to read list, I even didn't know it existed. The book is divided into problems and how to deal with them biblically. I as a person try read the Bible daily, attend church and live as a true Christian, I'm not telling you this to show off, but to tell you that most of what I have read in the book I have heard it before. That was until I read something that I haven't read before! And I loved it.
So the book actually is very simple and organised in its presentation of the problem and solution. It is simple and to the point. I think it's a great "beginner" book. If you are someone new to the Bible and would like to know how Jesus supports you in your different problems, then this is the book for you and I hope you experience the moment of joy I experienced in every chapter of this book. If you are more seasoned with Jesus and the Bible then you may want to pick the chapter whose problem you suffer from right now, it will help you greatly.
So the book actually is very simple and organised in its presentation of the problem and solution. It is simple and to the point. I think it's a great "beginner" book. If you are someone new to the Bible and would like to know how Jesus supports you in your different problems, then this is the book for you and I hope you experience the moment of joy I experienced in every chapter of this book. If you are more seasoned with Jesus and the Bible then you may want to pick the chapter whose problem you suffer from right now, it will help you greatly.
June 5, 2023
Me ha gustado mucho cómo se da desarrollo a cada uno de los temas, sobre todo de una forma sencilla sin llegar a lo básico, hay faltas de redacción y ortografÃa en mi edición, pero es un libro que reafirma tu llamado y hace ver que realmente no todo está tan mal como parece, es un entendimiento no lo suficiente profundo de los procesos en la vida pero es lo que necesitas en un inicio si decides darle comprensión a tu dubitativa.
Atiende a la psicologÃa y también a los escritos, es muy asertivo! Lee este libro si no entiendes la situación por la que estás pasando, si se te ha hecho difÃcil la vida cristiana, si has pasado por dolor, por soledad, por pecado, y no entiendes porque estás pasando lo que estás pasando, muy buen libro para responder a estas interrogantes.
Atiende a la psicologÃa y también a los escritos, es muy asertivo! Lee este libro si no entiendes la situación por la que estás pasando, si se te ha hecho difÃcil la vida cristiana, si has pasado por dolor, por soledad, por pecado, y no entiendes porque estás pasando lo que estás pasando, muy buen libro para responder a estas interrogantes.
July 11, 2023
Difficult Questions Answered Indeed
This book was a really useful tool to get a deeper understanding of Christ and the Bible and how He works in our lives. I'd say it's very good for beginners And even in a Bible Study Group format. In fact, that is probably how I intend to use this book. The reason for 4 star and not 5 is because some of the questions seem pretty similar to one another and not very different, also, there are some VERY difficult questions in here that don't even get discussed which would have been interesting to read about (like purpose and bad things happening to good people).
This book was a really useful tool to get a deeper understanding of Christ and the Bible and how He works in our lives. I'd say it's very good for beginners And even in a Bible Study Group format. In fact, that is probably how I intend to use this book. The reason for 4 star and not 5 is because some of the questions seem pretty similar to one another and not very different, also, there are some VERY difficult questions in here that don't even get discussed which would have been interesting to read about (like purpose and bad things happening to good people).
March 9, 2018
I always enjoy Rick Warren's practical biblical insight and wisdom. This is a very short book, that helpfully points to lots of scripture to help you thru different trying times. The book tackles, topics like loneliness, and why did this happen to me? Sometimes you just need quick reminders of scripture when you're facing something that attempts to bring you down. It is a small book, easy to keep around. I suffer from a chronic illness, and I like being able to pick up this book when I'm not feeling my best and planning a pity party for myself.
February 22, 2019
A Christian self-help book with stories from the Bible interpreted by the pastor. A typical Rick Warren style: lots of enumeration and same acronym word play. I have to admit this book is not the most helpful one, but it’s definitely not bad. However, I sometimes feel that the Bible is being used as a tool instead of as a source to suit people’s writing/preaching need. But I don’t think we should blame the pastors/writers, after all, we see things (read books) not as they are, but as we are. Books are mere reflection of what I we already have inside us.
January 18, 2018
The most inspirational book I have ever read. It really give you the motivation you need to God's Answers to Life difficult questions. If you have many question just like me, constantly waiting for God to answer but never seem to get any then you must pick up this book to read. After you finish reading it, you feel your spirit is being lifted and you know that all this while you think you are alone, God has always been with you this time watching over your shoulders.
May 22, 2018
Inspired Answers
Rick Warren has asked some questions we would often ask of God. He then answers them the way God would answer them. In this way, Rick Warren is one of the most inspired authors I have ever read.
At the end of each chapter are questions for the reader to answer. They allow the reader to apply his teaching to their lives. They can be used for individual or group Bible study. They worked great for me as an individual.
Rick Warren has asked some questions we would often ask of God. He then answers them the way God would answer them. In this way, Rick Warren is one of the most inspired authors I have ever read.
At the end of each chapter are questions for the reader to answer. They allow the reader to apply his teaching to their lives. They can be used for individual or group Bible study. They worked great for me as an individual.
March 13, 2018
Excellent Practical Advice & Reminders
When faced with difficult questions, we do not want complex answers, rather we seek clear and actionable answers that we can apply, if we choose to do so. God’s Answers to Life’s Difficult Questions can serve as a practical guide and reference in our daily lives.
When faced with difficult questions, we do not want complex answers, rather we seek clear and actionable answers that we can apply, if we choose to do so. God’s Answers to Life’s Difficult Questions can serve as a practical guide and reference in our daily lives.
September 25, 2019
Uplifting
I like the way Rick presented the situation, explained it and give practical steps to apply it to my daily life. It encourages me to continue to grow and believe in God and Jesus Cnrist. I highly recommend the book for those people who seems to be lost and have questions about life and our connection to God.
I like the way Rick presented the situation, explained it and give practical steps to apply it to my daily life. It encourages me to continue to grow and believe in God and Jesus Cnrist. I highly recommend the book for those people who seems to be lost and have questions about life and our connection to God.
January 17, 2022
Excellent Words to Live By
I liked the extended explanations on how to live and respond like a Christian, not just in thinking, but in speech and behavior. Rick Warren emphasizes the need for God in everything that happens in our lives, how to let God in, and what wonderful things that happens when we do. I hated when this book and its wisdom ended.
I liked the extended explanations on how to live and respond like a Christian, not just in thinking, but in speech and behavior. Rick Warren emphasizes the need for God in everything that happens in our lives, how to let God in, and what wonderful things that happens when we do. I hated when this book and its wisdom ended.
February 27, 2023
Such a powerful little book! I have NEVER highlighted so many points/promises! This a must-read on how to cope with stress, rebound from hurt/heartbreak and have peace of mind.
"God used the bad things in my life. He used them to develop me and make me a better person, and I am thankful for it." Out of the worst, God can bring the best!!!
I will definitely read this book again and again!!!
"God used the bad things in my life. He used them to develop me and make me a better person, and I am thankful for it." Out of the worst, God can bring the best!!!
I will definitely read this book again and again!!!
October 15, 2024
Este libro es uno muy bueno para aquellas personas que se encuentran pasando por momentos difÃciles los cuales no entienden o no saben cómo lidiar. Da ejemplos cotidianos y consejos que son excelentes y actuales. Me gusta como usa versÃculos bÃblicos e historias bÃblicas para explicarnos los capÃtulos! Súper recomendado
August 6, 2017
This is good for a self help book. I don't know that I agree with points he pulls from Scripture but none of the points are wrong, it just feels like some Scripture is used to "prove" pre-decided lessons.
May 26, 2018
An Easy Must Read
Pastor Warren’s book addresses a multitude of questions about life’s difficulties and how to deal with them as a Christian. I will definitely recommend this book to my friends & family.
Pastor Warren’s book addresses a multitude of questions about life’s difficulties and how to deal with them as a Christian. I will definitely recommend this book to my friends & family.
January 21, 2019
Encouraging Book
Warren goes over some difficult questions in this book. Then he gives biblical responses or life examples of leaders in the bible to help readers work out tough situations. The book gives hope and encouraging guidance. Worth the read.
Warren goes over some difficult questions in this book. Then he gives biblical responses or life examples of leaders in the bible to help readers work out tough situations. The book gives hope and encouraging guidance. Worth the read.
May 30, 2019
Answered Questions for me😊
This book is definitely food for thought. Makes me think before I speak and has reminded me of how my behavior needs to change with certain people in my life. Will re-read again!
This book is definitely food for thought. Makes me think before I speak and has reminded me of how my behavior needs to change with certain people in my life. Will re-read again!
March 20, 2023
This book has helped so much during my hard times. Given me peace, strength and it was a daily confirmation that God is with me with us everyday and we just have to have faith and be patient.
Will be one of my to go books when needed.
Will be one of my to go books when needed.
September 16, 2024
Review
Very helpful book. Things were explained in a simple way. Straight to the point. Mr. Warren then added his own explanation and interpretation which I found to be agreeable. A good book for right. should be required reading in the first year
Very helpful book. Things were explained in a simple way. Straight to the point. Mr. Warren then added his own explanation and interpretation which I found to be agreeable. A good book for right. should be required reading in the first year
May 17, 2025
Helpful Guidance
Rick Warren always shares God's truths in a way that is not only easy to understand, but also very relatable. Reading this book, I almost felt like he was sharing these truths with me over a cup of coffee.
Rick Warren always shares God's truths in a way that is not only easy to understand, but also very relatable. Reading this book, I almost felt like he was sharing these truths with me over a cup of coffee.
May 16, 2017
Great Book
Gives you a great perspective on many issues we face and how we can cope through the self help book given by God, the Bible.
Gives you a great perspective on many issues we face and how we can cope through the self help book given by God, the Bible.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.